St. Francis de Sales Church, Shanthinagar, resonated with dynamic energy as over 750 young people from parishes across the Archdiocese of Hyderabad gathered to celebrate National Youth Sunday 2026, centered on the theme “Tharseo – Take Courage. Christ Is With You.”
Grand Welcome and Holy Eucharist: The day commenced with a warm welcome and a spirited brass band performance by the parish youth, followed by the ceremonial hoisting of the Youth Flag. A grand entrance procession marked the start of the Holy Mass, with youth bearing the flags of various parishes across the archdiocese.
Rev. Msgr Yeruva Bala Showry presided as the main celebrant, offering a meaningful introduction that set the spiritual tone for the gathering. Rev. Fr. Madanu Anthony, Procurator and Chancellor, broke the Word of God through an inspiring homily. The Mass was concelebrated by Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Bonela Prasad, Rev. Fr. Jerome, and Rev. Fr. Prabhu Das, with the entire liturgy animated prayerfully and vibrantly by the youth of Hyderabad.
Inspirational Formations and Career Insights: Fr. Naveen Nirmal MSFS, Media Secretary for MSFS India, led the primary input session, urging the youth to be discerning media consumers and to leverage modern digital channels to radiate Christ.
Industry Professionals Broadened the Horizons of the Participants:
Artificial Intelligence: Mr. Joseph Sanjay, Director of Amy Cloud Services, shared insights on modern AI applications.
Higher Education: Mr. Bernard Valentine from Ark Overseas Education guided students on study-abroad pathways, university selection, visas, and interest-free loan schemes.
Upcoming Retreat: Mr. Steve introduced the upcoming three-day youth retreat scheduled for September 11–13 at Shanti Sadanam, Ramanthapur.
The assembly was also greeted by Fr. Praveen OFM, host of the previous year’s Youth Sunday, who joined in prayer and solidarity.
Cultural Joy and Eucharistic Adoration: Following a fellowship lunch, the Jesus Rangers Youth Band energized the crowd with Gospel music, joined by a lively rap gig from Fr. Jerome. The host parish staged engaging dance and skit performances, which flowed into open-ground party games and group dancing with over 500 young people
The day concluded at the Altar with an hour of Praise, Worship, and Eucharistic Adoration led by Mrs. Judith and her team, culminating in the final Eucharistic blessing imparted by Fr. Jerome.Sincere gratitude is extended to the clergy, animators, and volunteers whose dedicated leadership made this Archdiocesan gathering a resounding success.